Paul Haertel retired as the FBI's deputy director in charge of the Critical Incident Response Group.

During his 29-year career, he led investigations around the world. He headed the FBI's Salt Lake City office, managed the Counterterrorism Division's Operations Section, and supervised the FBI's Tactical Unit in various capacities. He has worked in several overseas locations, including 5 years working with law enforcement in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. He began his career in Kentucky where he was a member and team leader of the FBI SWAT unit in that state. Prior to joining the FBI, Mr. Haertel was a member of the US Navy SEALs.